“People are disturbed not by the events that happen to them, but by their view of these events.”
Epictetus, 55-135 A.D.
I just love the Ancient Greek philosophers, particularly the Stoics. I love their views and attitudes about life. Stoa is Greek for “porch,” which is where those great minds sat when they congregated to philosophize. The Stoics were calm and unflappable, making nothing more or less of any reality they dealt with. And Epictetus was born a slave, so he knew harsh reality. They believed that all suffering arises from attempting to control what is uncontrollable or from neglecting to control that which we can. They also believed that human beings have a duty to care for one another and that by doing so, one can achieve happiness and peace of mind.
Bottom line: It’s a drama-free life.
The Cynics, on the other hand, seemed to thrive on drama. Cyn is Greek for “dog,” and these philosophers veritably barked at those who disagreed with or displeased them. Obviously, this is where we get our English word for cynical. Cynics generally thrive on negativity.
Imagine, if you will, the Stoics perched (stoically, of course) on their porch, stroking their beards, cool as cucumbers, while the Cynics chased one another around the yard barking ferociously, carping, negative, disturbing the peace.
We have a choice of how we want to move through life, moment by moment, day by day. Calmly watching life unfold in front of you, or constantly running around and raging? Living in acceptance or ranting endlessly?
You can choose to change your attitude! Would you like help with living your life more calmly? Learn more about all of the therapy services I offer. And learn more about the common myths about hypnosis and learn the reality of hypnosis. Or please or contact me for more information.